Greek Bronze Trilobate Arrowheads

Archaic and Classical periods, c. 475–300 BC, Greece

A well-preserved group of three ancient Greek bronze arrowheads, each featuring the characteristic trilobate blade and socketed base. The blades are defined by a strong flanged midrib that runs the full length of the head and continues directly into the socket, a design that increased both the strength of the weapon and its ability to penetrate armor or shields.

These forms, commonly described as trilobate or “Scythian-type” arrowheads, are widely documented throughout the ancient Near East beginning in the 7th century BC, before spreading into Greece and Egypt. The type was used extensively by the armies of the Achaemenid Empire before 500 BC and later became one of the most prevalent arrowhead forms in Greece during the 5th century BC.

Earlier scholarship associated these arrowheads primarily with the nomadic Scythians and Cimmerians, groups originating from the Eurasian steppe who moved into the Near East during the 8th century BC. However, archaeological evidence now demonstrates that this efficient and durable design achieved far broader distribution across both time and geography. Its effectiveness—particularly its capacity to pierce armor—made it a favored military form across multiple cultures. The discovery of more than 3,000 examples at Persepolis, which replaced Pasargadae as the capital of the Persian Empire, strongly suggests that it was the standard arrowhead type employed by Persian forces.

This attractive group of trilobate arrowheads provides a clear illustration of the spread of military technology throughout the ancient world and represents a fine example of Greek bronze weaponry from the Archaic and Classical periods.

Good condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age and use. Dark green patina and minor encrustations over the whole of each arrowhead. Size varies from approx. 2,7cm to 3,9cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

For a similar example see:

Arrow-head, The British Museum, Accession Number: 1865,0720.79 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1865-0720-79) 

Arrowhead, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 74.51.5323 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/244202)